Many homeowners prefer metal roofs, such as steel and aluminum, because they are extremely durable, energy efficient, and last for many years. However, damages such as leaks, corrosion, dents, cracks, and gaps can occur due to various factors, including harsh weather conditions.
You may have to hire specialized roofing contractors to perform the necessary repairs. And while the metal roof repair costs can vary greatly, you should be prepared to pay between $559 and $2,101, with a national average cost of around $1,330.
Metal roof repairs typically involve sealing holes and cracks and, in some rare cases, removing and repairing rusted sections. In some cases, the cost of repairs may be as low as $125 to as high as $13,815. If your estimate is way higher, it may be more cost-effective to consider a roof replacement instead of continuing to repair it.
In this pricing guide, we’ll cover:
- Average Costs
- Cost Estimator by Material
- Other Factors That Affect Cost
- Related Services
- Cost by Location
- FAQ
Average Metal Shingle Roof Costs
| National Average Cost | $1,330 |
| Typical Price Range | $559 – $2,101 |
| Extreme Low-End Cost | $125 |
| Extreme High-End Cost | $13,815 |
The cost of repairing a metal roof is typically between $559 and $2,101, with most homeowners paying around $1,330. You may have to pay the same amount for repair work on a roof that is dented and scratched. However, if you only need to tighten and adjust a few exposed fasteners, the cost may be lower, around $125. But for retrofitting a large metal roof, the cost may be much higher, possibly around $13,815.
Metal roofs are generally more expensive to repair than other roofing types, such as asphalt shingles. However, they have a longer lifespan and offer a range of design options, which can make them a worthwhile investment over the lifetime of your home. To get the maximum lifespan from your metal roof with the fewest issues, it’s important to schedule regular inspections, maintenance, and repairs. Quickly addressing minor issues can help prevent them from becoming major problems.
Metal Roof Repair Cost Estimator by Material
Depending on the type of material, the cost of repairing a metal roof can vary greatly. Repairing an aluminum or tin roof may be less expensive, with costs starting at around $6 per square foot, including labor. On the other hand, repairing a copper or stainless steel roof can be more expensive, with costs potentially reaching up to $20 per square foot.
Keep in mind that these costs are just estimates and may vary based on the specific details of the repair work needed. So, it’s better to get a detailed quote from a professional contractor before starting any repair work.
Aluminum
Aluminum is a popular choice for metal roofing due to its affordability and durability. If you need to repair an aluminum roof, you can expect to pay between $6 and $16 per square foot.
Although aluminum is durable and resistant to rust and corrosion, it can be prone to contracting and expanding in extreme temperature changes. This drawback can lead to the need for repairs, such as fixing fasteners, leaks, and cracks. Regularly maintain and inspect your aluminum roof to help prevent or minimize the need for repairs.
Copper
Copper roof repair is generally the most expensive type of metal roof repair, with most people paying between $12 and $20 per square foot. This metal roofing material is known for its durability and unique appearance. But like any metal roof, they can be subject to dents, scratches, and loose fasteners that may need to be repaired.
Over time, copper also will oxidize and develop a beautiful and distinctive patina with a blue-green hue. While this change in appearance is natural and can be attractive, you may choose to have the roof cleaned and restored to its original shine if desired.
Galvalume
If you need to repair a galvalume roof, you can expect to pay between $6 and $16 per square foot for the repair work. Galvalume is a strong and durable material that is resistant to corrosion, but it can fade over time and become less attractive. To restore its appearance, it may need to be painted, cleaned, or restored.
In addition to these issues, galvalume roofs may have gaps and dents that need to be repaired. Proper maintenance and regular inspections can help prevent or minimize the need for costly repairs to your galvalume roof.
Galvanized Steel
On average, it costs between $8 and $18 per square foot to repair a galvanized steel roof. This metal roofing material can have a long lifespan with proper maintenance, but it can be prone to corrosion and may need to be looked after to protect against this issue. In addition to corrosion, galvanized steel roofs may develop cracks, dents, holes, and gaps that need to be repaired.
Stainless Steel
The cost of repairing a stainless steel roof usually ranges from $10 to $20 per square foot. Stainless steel roofs are known for being low maintenance and resistant to cracking and fading. However, they can still be subject to other types of damage, such as flashing damage, dents, gaps, and leaks. If you don’t want to have to repair it often, maintain it and do roof inspections regularly.
Steel
If you need to repair a steel roof, you can expect to pay between $9 and $19 per square foot. Steel roofs, like the galvanized type, are known for their durability and long lifespan with minimal maintenance. However, steel can expand and contract, which can cause issues such as loose fasteners or cracks and gaps that need to be repaired.
Stone-Coated
The typical cost of repairing a stone-coated roof is typically between $10 and $20 per square foot. A stone-coated roof is known for its durability and long lifespan, but it can still be damaged by falling debris, hail, and wear and tear. As a result, they may need to be cleaned, patched, and restored due to various types of damage.
To help prevent or minimize the need for repairs, it is important to regularly maintain and inspect your stone-coated roof.
Tin
Tin roofs are less expensive than other types of roofing materials, but they can corrode over time and may need to have rusty sections patched or replaced. Repairing a tin roof typically costs between $6 and $16 per square foot. In addition, this type of roofing can be prone to impact damage, dents, and scratches, especially during storms.
While tin roofs are not as popular as they were in the past, replacement sheets are still available for purchase. But you may have to hire a specialized roofing contractor to do the necessary repairs.
Zinc
The cost of repairing a zinc roof ranges from $7 to $17 per square foot. Zinc is a popular mid-range roofing material due to its corrosion resistance, long lifespan, and ability to heal minor scratches and dents with minimal maintenance. However, like all metal roofs, zinc can eventually corrode or develop cracks and leaks that require repair.
Other Factors That Affect Cost
Various factors can affect the rate roofing companies charge for their services, including the type of roofing problem and the proposed solution. It is important to thoroughly understand these factors to determine if the rate offered is reasonable.
Type of Roofing Issue
Over the course of its lifetime, a metal roofing system may develop a number of problems, including loose seams, leaks, dents, holes, and corrosion that require repair or roof replacement. Since some problems are much easier to fix compared to other issues, the cost to repair a metal roof will depend on the severity of the issue.
For example, fixing simple problems like backed-out fasteners can cost about $125. On the other hand, you may have to pay around $3,000 for extensive damage caused by corrosion on a standard-size roof of 1,500 square feet.
It is important to assess the problem carefully and get multiple estimates from contractors to ensure you are getting a fair price for the repair work.
| Type of Roofing Issue | Typical Price Range |
| Leaks | $400 – $1,000 |
| Cracks, holes, gaps | $200 – $1,000 |
| Dents | $300 – $1,200 |
| Corrosion | $500 – $3,000 |
| Loose seams | $250 – $1,250 |
| Backed-out fasteners | $125 – $600 |
| Oil canning | $500 – $3,000 |
| Color fading | $500 – $2,500 |
| Scuffs and scratches | $150 – $750 |
| Weather damage | $700 – $4,000 |
Leaks
The cost of repairing leaks in a metal roof usually falls within the range of $400 to $1,000. But if the leak’s cause is not immediately detectable or the repair will take more time, the cost may go up. It also would depend on various factors, such as the extent of the damage caused by the leak, the ease of accessing the repair area, and the cause or source of the leak.
Metal roofs are prone to leaking at the seams as well as in locations where there are protrusions, such as vents and skylights. Cracks, holes, and gaps that form on the surface of metal roofs due to corrosion, rust, or shrinkage can all cause leaks.
To fix such leaks, you may need to tighten the fasteners, patch the damaged areas, or replace any sections where there is water damage. Identifying roof leaks early on can help reduce repair costs.
Cracks, Holes, and Gaps
Repairing cracks, holes, and gaps in a metal roof costs from $200 to $1,000. The amount you’ll have to pay will depend on several factors, including the material prices, as well as the size and depth of the crack, hole, or gap. Minor cracks can be easily and inexpensively patched and filled, while deeper and larger cracks may require replacing the damaged sections.
Rust and corrosion, as well as falling objects, can lead to punctures and holes in metal roofs. To repair such holes, roofing contractors also fill and patch them. If the hole is big, it will cost more to repair since you may have to replace the entire panel or sheet with new materials.
Dents
To repair dents in your metal roof, you may have to pay between $300 and $1,200. Hail storms can cause dents on metal roofs. When large objects like tree branches fall on metal roofs during high winds and storms, it also can cause dents.
Roofing contractors can smooth out the dent and restore the damaged area to its original appearance, especially if there is no severe cracking or damage to the dented roof section.
Corrosion
Without proper maintenance and regular sealing, your roofing’s metal panels can corrode. And once rust sets in, you will have no choice but to repair the corroded sections. Repairing corrosion on a metal roof costs around $500 to $3,000, with more than half of the total cost covering just the materials.
But if the panels or sheets are already severely corroded, you should have them removed and replaced with new metal roof panels. So if you see pitting, especially on older metal roofs, it’s a sign that corrosion is beginning to surface. Have it repaired by a professional roofer, and don’t wait for the problem to set in and become worse.
Loose Seams
Getting loose seams repaired on a metal roof costs anywhere from $250 to $1,250. If the fasteners or screws of your metal roofing system become loose, it can lead to issues with the seams between the metal sheets or roofing panels. To fix this issue, you will have to replace or readjust the fasteners with new sealant and tape.
Backed-Out Fasteners
If the fasteners on your standing seam metal roof have come loose and are backing out, the cost to repair them can range between $125 and $600. The total cost will depend on the number of fasteners that need to be fixed and the amount of labor required to do the job.
To lower the repair costs, check if the exposed fasteners are not damaged and if you can still reuse them. You can ask the roofer to simply put the fasteners back, tighten them, and apply a good sealant to ensure a secure and long-lasting repair. However, if they are damaged, they will need to be replaced.
Oil Canning
The average price for dealing with this issue falls between $500 and $3,000. Oil canning is the waviness that appears in metal roof sheets due to a loss of elasticity, stress, or rapid temperature changes. Also known as elastic buckling or stress wrinkling, this issue can be fixed effectively by replacing the sections of your existing roof that have been affected.
Color Fading
A color-faded roof is never a good sight to behold. And if it’s the roof of your house, you may want to have it restored as soon as possible. You can expect to pay between $500 and $2,500 upfront to have the color restored on your roof. This is a common issue with old roofs and occurs naturally due to sun exposure.
The best solution is to paint the faded sections, and the painting cost will depend on the amount of paint needed and the type of paint used. Keep in mind that this process will need to be repeated periodically to maintain the restored color.
Scuffs and Scratches
If you want to restore the scuffs and scratches on your metal roof, prepare to pay around $150 to $750 for the repair. As roofing contractors work on or make repairs to metal roofs, the surfaces may become scuffed and scratched. Debris blowing onto the roof also can leave marks and scratches.
Your best solution would be to have the roof surface cleaned before filling in the deep scratches and covering up the marks with paint or stain. You also may need to carry out other restoration tasks to address the issue.
Weather Damage
The average roof repair cost for damages caused by harsh weather conditions like storms and hail can range from $700 to $4,000. But it will still depend on the extent of damage and the type of repair needed to fix it.
Apart from hail and storm damage, ice dams are also a common problem that can cause damage to metal roofs. They form when snow on the roof melts and flows down to the roof’s edge, where it refreezes. As the cycle repeats, the ice accumulates and produces a dam, causing water to back up behind the dam and seep under the shingles and underlayment and into the roof structure.
While your home insurance will most likely cover functional damage caused by severe weather, many providers don’t include cosmetic damage in the coverage. In most cases, they will only pay a percentage of the roof replacement cost, and it’s usually just around 50% or even less.
Type of Roof Repair
There are several types of roof repair that may be needed depending on the type of damage that has occurred on a metal roof. These factors can affect the cost of metal roof repairs since certain repair methods are much simpler and more affordable than others.
| Type of Roof Repair | Typical Price Range |
| Coating | $700 – $2,000 |
| Flashing | $200 – $500 |
| Screw replacement | $150 – $1,000 |
| Sheet replacement | $3 – $14.50 per sq. ft. |
| Sealing | $400- $1,250 |
| Patching | $200 – $1,000 |
| Taping | $250 – $750 |
| Retrofitting | $5,000 – $13,815 |
Coating
The typical cost to reapply a protective coating on a metal roof ranges from $700 to $2,000. This process helps protect the roof against issues like leaks, water damage, rust, and corrosion.
Recoating a metal roof is similar to sealing it and is often done to extend the roof’s lifespan and improve its performance. There are different types of coatings available, with some providing greater protection but at a higher cost.
Flashing
Flashing is a material that is used on a roof to divert water away from certain areas. It is typically made of metal and is placed around vents, chimneys, valleys, and areas near the gutters. The cost to repair flashing can vary, with the average cost being between $200 and $500. It is important to address any damage to flashing as it can lead to leaks and other issues if not properly repaired.
Screw Replacement
If you need to replace the screws in your metal roof, expect to pay around $150 to $1,000, depending on the number of screws that need to be replaced. Rust and corrosion can damage the screws, making them faulty and loose.
So if you notice any damage to the screws, replace the affected ones immediately to prevent leaks, gaps, and loose sheets in your metal roofing system.
Sheet Replacement
The cost of replacing sheets on a metal roof can range from $3 to $14.50 per square foot, depending on the material costs and the extent of the damage. If there’s extensive damage on the existing metal sheets due to dents, holes, or cracks, it may be necessary to replace them.
But if the repair costs exceed 50% of the cost of installing new panels or a new roof, it may be more cost-effective to replace the entire structure rather than repair it.
Sealing
If the sealant has become brittle or shrunk, it may be necessary to reseal the seams with newer caulks or special rubberized tapes to prevent moisture from seeping through. The average cost of sealing a metal roof is between $400 and $1,250, depending on the material of the roof, the size of the damaged roof, its accessibility, and the type of sealant used.
Different types of high-quality sealants can be applied to a metal roof for protection against water damage, abrasion, and corrosion. It also can help extend the roof’s lifespan.
Patching
For fixing cracks and holes in metal roofs, patching is often the preferred method of most homeowners. It involves filling the damaged areas with a special material like epoxy. The cost of patching a metal roof can range from $200 to $1,000, depending on the size and extent of the damage, as well as the materials needed to complete the repair.
Taping
Homeowners pay between $250 and $750 to tape part of their metal roof, with the majority of the cost being for labor. Special sealing tape is used to protect metal roofs against water damage by applying it at the seams between metal sheets and panels. It also can be used to cover cracks and other minor damages to prevent leaks. While the cost of the tape itself is relatively low, applying it can be labor-intensive, which can drive up the overall cost of the repair.
Retrofitting
Retrofitting a metal roof, which involves installing a new roof over an existing roof, can cost between $5,000 and $13,815 for homeowners. While retrofitting can be a more cost-effective and time-saving option compared to a full roof replacement, it can still be quite expensive due to the materials and labor required.
Roof Size and Pitch
The total roof repair cost will be affected by the size of your roof. Larger roofs often require more materials and work to repair, raising the overall cost. Another major factor would be the slope and pitch of the roof, as steeper roofs may be more difficult to work on and require additional safety precautions. Request an estimate from a professional roofing contractor for a more accurate idea of the costs involved in fixing your roof.
Underlayment Replacement
Most metal roof installations entail installing underlayment for additional protection to the roofing system. It also serves other important purposes, such as waterproofing and lowering your home’s cooling costs. If you need to repair your roof’s underlayment, expect to pay around $4 to $6 per square foot.
Amount of Roof Repair Needed
It is important to consider the extent of the damage to the roof when determining the total cost of repairs. The larger the roof size that needs to be repaired, the more expensive the repair will be. In cases of severe damage, replacing the entire roof may be the more cost-effective option.
Labor Costs
Some roofing contractors have fixed fees for roof repairs and replacements, while others base their fees on the size and complexity of the roofing project. For the rest who charge by the hour, the labor costs for repairing a metal roof typically range from $35 to $90 per hour.
The cost of labor also may vary based on factors such as the roofer’s experience, your location, the roof pitch, and the length of the project. For example, the labor costs for a roof with a steep pitch may be higher than the fees for a flat roof. There may be additional fees for emergency repairs, travel to remote locations, or same-day service.
Permits
The fees for building permits are part of the installation costs for a new roof. And even if you just need to repair a small section of your metal roof, you also need to obtain such permits. You can expect to pay between $255 and $500, but it can still vary depending on the size and complexity of your roofing project, as well as other factors like location and local building department standards.
Obtaining permits for a metal roof installation may involve conducting inspections and submitting plans for review. For compliance with local building codes and to avoid fines, you should obtain all necessary permits before starting any repair work.
Warranty
Before hiring a roofer for repair work or replacement services for a metal roof installation, it is important to review the terms of any warranties that may be in place. Some warranties cover repair costs if any issues arise within a certain period of time. Checking the terms of the warranty policy can help you to understand what types of repairs and replacements may be covered.
Homeowners Insurance
Depending on your insurance coverage, you may not have to pay for roof repairs out of pocket. So, you should review your home insurance policy to determine what types of damages and repairs are covered. Most insurance providers cover certain damages and repairs to a roof, such as those caused by high winds or hail.
Also, remember to file a claim in a timely manner, as some policies may not cover damages if the claim is filed too late. Ask your roofing contractor if they can assist you with the claim process or if they can handle the insurance claims on your behalf.
Related Services
Proper maintenance is important for extending the life of a metal roof and avoiding costly repairs. Neglecting maintenance can lead to the need for repairs or even the need to replace the roof prematurely.
So, it’s important to allocate funds for the regular upkeep of a metal roof in order to ensure it lasts a long time, lowers your energy costs, and increases your home resale value – potentially saving you money in the long run.
Roof Maintenance
Metal roofs made from high-quality materials are known for their durability and long lifespan. However, they still require periodic maintenance to continue performing at their best. You can expect to pay between $100 and $750 annually for your roof maintenance. This may cover basic tasks such as removing debris and fixing loose or broken shingles.
You can save money by doing DIY roof maintenance. This can include visual roof inspections to check for apparent signs of damage. You also can remove debris from the gutters and parts of the roof you can reach using long-handled brushes. However, it would still be better to have professional roofers handle all the work involved in maintaining your roof.
Roof Inspection
Depending on factors like roof size and accessibility, a professional roof inspection can cost between $100 and $450. This service is important for identifying potential issues and addressing them promptly, as it can potentially save you money on costly repairs in the future. During an inspection, a professional will look for signs of damage and provide a full report. It is generally recommended to have inspections at least every couple of years or annually.
Roof Cleaning
While it is possible to clean a metal roof on your own, hiring professionals is often the best choice as they have the necessary equipment and cleaning solutions to effectively and safely clean the roof. You can expect to pay around $490 for a professional roof cleaning service.
Pressure washing is a common method used to clean metal roofs, but it’s important for the roofer to have proper training and expertise to avoid damaging the paint. Complete roof cleaning typically costs $30 to $50 per hour and may even include an inspection for sealant issues, leaks, and corrosion. Regular pressure washing can help to maintain the appearance of a metal roof.
Roof Gutters
Installing metal gutters on a standard roof around 1,500 square feet ranges from $900 to $5,000. The price may vary depending on the type of metal used and the amount of guttering needed. The most common materials used for roof gutters include aluminum, copper, galvanized steel, and zinc – with galvanized steel being the most affordable.
Roof Painting
The cost to paint a metal roof ranges from $1.50 to $2.50 per square foot. The total cost may be influenced by several factors, such as the roof’s accessibility, condition, steepness, and size, as well as the type of paint to be used. You also may incur additional expenses for power washing or cleaning if the area to be painted is dirty or in poor condition.
Tree Trimming
Never let trees and overgrown bushes rub against the surface of your roof, as the constant friction can potentially damage coatings or panels and lead to the need for repairs. Trimming trees and shrubs can help to prevent this issue. On average, tree trimming services cost between $315 and $700.
Cost of Metal Roof Repair by Location
Metal roof repair costs can vary based on location. For example, you may pay more to have your roof repaired in cities where the cost of living is high, such as New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. On the other hand, metal roof repair services in rural areas or cities with a lower cost of living may be less expensive.
If you’re living in a region with a longer roofing season and warm climate, the roof repair costs may be lower for you as opposed to those living in areas with shorter roofing seasons and harsh climates. Still, it would be better to request quotes from trustworthy roofing contractors in your area so you can get a more accurate cost estimate.
FAQ About Metal Roof Repairs
No, it’s generally not accurate to say that metal roofs leak more than asphalt shingle roofs. Both types of roofs can be properly installed and maintained to be relatively leak-resistant. However, it’s also true that any roof can potentially develop leaks, regardless of the material used.
Factors that can affect the likelihood of a roof leaking include the quality of the installation, the materials used, the local climate and weather conditions, and the level of maintenance the roof has received. If you’re concerned about the potential for leaks on your roof, it’s a good idea to have a professional roofing contractor inspect it and advise you on any necessary repairs or maintenance.
Home insurance policies typically cover damages to a home’s roof caused by certain events, such as wind, hail, and lightning. However, coverage for roof leaks can vary depending on the specific policy and the cause of the leak. For example, a policy may cover damages caused by a sudden and accidental roof leak but not cover damages resulting from a poorly maintained roof.
It’s important to carefully review your home insurance policy to understand what is and is not covered. You should contact your insurance agent or company to discuss your specific policy.
Yes, it’s possible, but not advisable to perform DIY repairs on a metal roof, especially if you don’t have experience working with this material. Metal roofs can be more difficult to repair than other types of roofs, and attempting to repair them without the necessary knowledge and tools can be dangerous. In addition, if the repair is not done correctly, it could lead to further damage to the roof or even cause injuries and void your warranty.
For metal roof repairs, it’s best to hire a professional roofing contractor who has experience working with this type of material and the necessary tools and equipment. A professional roofer can help you assess the damage to your roof, determine the best course of action, and make the necessary repairs in a safe and efficient manner.
Find a Roof Repair Pro Near You
Metal roofs can last a long time, depending on the level of maintenance they receive. Proper maintenance, including early identification and repair of issues, can extend the life of a roof. The cost of repairing a roof can range from $125 and $13,815, with a national average cost of $1,330.
The type of repair needed, the extent of the damage, and the material and shape of the roof can all affect the cost of labor. Still, it’s not possible to determine the exact cost of a roof repair without discussing the specific project with a roofing company.
Don’t postpone repairing your metal roof. Reach out to roofing contractors in your area today.
Main Photo by: Needpix
